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Sarcoma

Sarcoma, or soft tissue sarcoma, is a tumor that develops in the soft tissues of the body. Sarcomas are cancerous (malignant) tumors. Sarcomas can invade any of the bodyés soft tissues, but they are most common in the arms and legs. In a few cases, sarcomas appear in the chest, abdomen, neck, and head. Sarcomas are treated using surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

What causes sarcomas?

While some sarcomas, like Kaposiés sarcoma, have a definite cause (a viral infection), generally doctors arenét really sure what causes most sarcomas. They think that they may be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors like chemical and radiation exposure.

Are sarcomas serious?

Sarcomas are very serious. They can be life-threatening depending on the organs and tissues they affect.

Can I prevent sarcomas?

Leading a healthy lifestyle may help prevent some sarcomas, but thereés no guarantee that this will protect you from developing sarcomas.

How do I know if my child has a sarcoma?

The first sign of a sarcoma might be a noticeable lump in one of your childés arms or legs. Arms and legs are the most common sites for sarcomas. A smaller percentage of sarcomas occur in the chest, abdomen, head, and neck. Other signs of sarcomas may be pain if the tumor is pressing on a nerve, and intestinal blockage if the tumor is located in the bowel.

How do I treat sarcomas?

Sarcomas are treated using chemotherapy, cancer-killing drugs; radiation therapy, concentrated x-rays aimed at the tumor to kill it; and surgery, to remove the tumor. Surgery is the most common form of treatment, and it is often combined with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.

Should I call the doctor?

Always make an appointment with your doctor if your child has an unusual lump or any of the other signs of a sarcoma. He can help you diagnose your childés illness and recommend the best available treatment. The earlier treatment begins, the better the outcome.

What you need to know about sarcomas

Sarcomas are cancerous tumors.

Sarcomas may be caused by a combination of genetics and environmental factors.